When tackling projects that involve drilling through metal, especially resilient materials like steel, having the right tools is paramount. Standard drill bits often falter, dull quickly, or even break when faced with the demands of cutting through tough alloys. This is where specialized drill bits for cutting steel come into play, offering superior hardness, heat resistance, and cutting geometries designed to get the job done efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re a professional fabricator, a dedicated DIYer, or an automotive enthusiast, investing in high-quality drill bits ensures precision, longevity, and a smooth drilling experience even through the most stubborn metals like hardened steel and stainless steel.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bits For Cutting Steel Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Pilot Point Drill Bit Set for Cutting Steel
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Pilot Point Drill Bit Set is an excellent choice for general-purpose steel drilling, combining durability with precision. Each bit features a Titanium Nitride coating that significantly enhances surface hardness and reduces friction, contributing to a longer tool life. The innovative Pilot Point design ensures that the bits start on contact, preventing walking and creating cleaner, more accurate holes from the first touch.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating: Extends bit life by reducing heat and friction during drilling.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip: Designed to start on contact, preventing bit walking and creating clean, accurate holes.
- ✓ Optimized Flute Design: Allows for efficient material removal, reducing heat buildup and preventing clogging.
- ✓ Durable Construction: Engineered for toughness and reliability in demanding applications.
- ✓ Wide Range of Sizes: Offers versatility for various projects involving cutting steel.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DEWALT Titanium Nitride drill bit set for its balance of durability, precision, and value. The TiN coating and pilot point tip make drilling through metal, including mild and medium-gauge steel, much easier and more efficient than with standard HSS bits. This set is a reliable workhorse for frequent use across various metallic materials.
Best For
This set is ideal for general contractors, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing a reliable, all-around set of drill bits for cutting steel and other common metals with enhanced accuracy and longevity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability and extended lifespan thanks to TiN coating.
- Pilot Point tip ensures precise, walk-free starts and clean holes.
- Efficient chip removal prevents overheating and binding.
- Suitable for a variety of metal drilling applications.
Cons:
- Not as effective on extremely hardened or exotic alloys as pure cobalt bits.
- The coating can wear off over time with heavy use on very abrasive materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using these DEWALT bits for years for various home projects and light fabrication. They stay sharp much longer than regular bits and the pilot point makes a huge difference when drilling into sheet metal or pipe. Great value for the quality!”
Customer Review: “These bits are fantastic for general metal work. I’ve drilled through angle iron, steel tubing, and aluminum without issue. Just remember to use cutting fluid and go slow on thicker steel, and they’ll last.”
2. Champion HSS Drill Bit Set for Cutting Steel, 29-Piece 1/16-1/2″, 135-Degree Split Point
The Champion HSS Drill Bit Set is a robust 29-piece collection offering exceptional quality for cutting steel and various metals. Engineered with a 135-degree split point and tapered web geometry, these bits are designed to drill up to 3 times longer and 2 times faster than many competitors. The high-speed steel construction provides excellent toughness, while flatted shanks ensure secure chucking in keyless power tools, making it a reliable choice for professional and demanding applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS) Construction: Provides excellent toughness and resistance to abrasion for various metals.
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point: Ensures fast, accurate starts and reduces walking on hard surfaces.
- ✓ Tapered Web Geometry: Offers increased strength and rigidity, reducing bit breakage.
- ✓ Flatted Shanks: Prevents slippage in keyless chucks, ensuring secure grip and power transfer.
- ✓ Reduced Overall Length: Enhances strength and rigidity, particularly in larger sizes.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Champion HSS set for its impressive balance of speed, accuracy, and durability. Its ability to flex more than traditional cobalt bits reduces chipping, making it surprisingly resilient. This set is a fantastic choice for those who need a comprehensive range of sizes for consistent, high-performance metal drilling.
Best For
This set is perfect for automotive technicians, metal fabricators, and serious DIYers who require a versatile and reliable set of drill bits for cutting steel, aluminum, and other non-ferrous metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity and drilling speed compared to standard HSS bits.
- Resists chipping and snapping better than some cobalt formulations.
- Wide range of sizes (1/16″ to 1/2″) covers most common drilling needs.
- Flatted shanks provide secure grip in drills.
Cons:
- While strong, pure cobalt might outperform HSS on very hardened tool steel.
- Requires proper drilling technique and lubrication for optimal performance on thick steel.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve drilled a bazillion holes in every kind of material you can think of over more than 65 years of being an automotive technician, and used up my share of drill bits. I’ve learned to recognize good ones from bad ones and I’d have to say that these appear to be among the best quality around. Beauti”
Customer Review: “These bits are excellent for heavy-duty work. The precision and speed are noticeable. I’ve tackled some tough steel projects, and these bits handled them with ease, proving their worth over and over again.”
3. Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bits: TiAlN Coated for Cutting Hardened and Stainless Steel
The Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bits are specifically engineered for the toughest metal drilling tasks, including hardened and stainless steel. Constructed from premium M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with 5% cobalt, these bits boast industry-leading durability and exceptional heat resistance up to 1200°F. The innovative triple-flute design combined with a TiAlN Nano-coating ensures faster cutting, superior chip removal, and a longer lifespan, making them a professional’s choice for challenging materials.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt HSS (5% Cobalt): Provides extreme hardness and heat resistance for cutting hard metals.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating (89HRC): Enhances surface hardness, wear resistance, and lubrication.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design: Delivers 40% better chip removal, preventing clogging and reducing breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip: Ensures precise drilling without walking, even on curved surfaces.
- ✓ Exceptional Durability: Outlasts standard bits by up to 5 times in tough materials.
Why We Recommend It
For those frequently working with challenging materials like stainless steel or hardened steel, the Crosstar M35 Cobalt bits are an outstanding choice. The combination of M35 cobalt, TiAlN coating, and the unique triple-flute design allows for aggressive cutting and extended tool life, even under high-stress conditions. It’s truly among the best drill bits for cutting steel when toughness is required.
Best For
Ideal for professional metalworkers, machinists, and serious DIYers tackling projects involving hardened steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and other high-strength alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior performance and lifespan on hardened and stainless steel.
- Excellent heat dissipation prevents bit annealing.
- Faster drilling and efficient chip evacuation with the triple-flute design.
- Highly resistant to wear and abrasion due to TiAlN coating.
Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to standard HSS or TiN-coated bits.
- May require slower speeds and cutting fluid for optimal performance on extremely hard materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The half inch bit I used yesterday on soft iron hinges and 2 inch angle iron. Amazed how sharp these bits are! Never seen the most perfect curly shavings as it cut through the metal with ease. Don’t know how long these will last but boy am I impressed so far. These were used in a cordless drill.”
Customer Review: “These Crosstar cobalt bits cut through thick stainless steel like butter. I’ve struggled with other bits on this material, but the TiAlN coating and M35 cobalt really make a difference. Highly recommend for serious metal drilling.”
4. toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set, Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated, for Cutting Steel and Hardened Metals
The toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a comprehensive 21-piece collection designed for robust performance when cutting steel and various hardened metals. Each bit is crafted from cobalt steel and further enhanced with a Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating, which boosts surface hardness to an impressive 89HRC and provides outstanding heat resistance. This combination ensures that the drill bits cut fast and maintain their sharpness for extended periods, making them ideal for challenging drilling applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cobalt Drill Bit Construction: Offers superior hardness and heat resistance over standard HSS.
- ✓ Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) Coating: Maximizes surface hardness (89HRC) and greatly improves heat and wear resistance.
- ✓ Fast and Sharp Cutting: Engineered to penetrate tough materials quickly while retaining edge sharpness.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-Piece Set: Includes a wide range of common sizes for versatile use.
- ✓ Durable and Reliable: Designed for consistent performance in demanding metal drilling tasks.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for its excellent balance of cobalt strength and advanced TiAlN coating. This combination makes it highly effective for drilling through metal, including more challenging types of steel and other hardened alloys. It’s a solid choice for those needing a durable and heat-resistant set without breaking the bank.
Best For
This set is well-suited for fabricators, mechanics, and advanced DIYers who regularly work with medium to hard steel, cast iron, and other tough metals, requiring bits that can withstand significant heat and wear.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Effective for cutting hardened and stainless steel due to cobalt material.
- TiAlN coating significantly enhances durability and heat resistance.
- Maintains sharpness longer than non-coated or TiN-coated bits.
- Good range of sizes included in the 21-piece set.
Cons:
- Exact cobalt percentage is not specified, which can impact ultimate hardness compared to M35/M42.
- The coating, while durable, can eventually chip with extreme lateral force.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I needed a reliable set of bits for drilling through some old, tough steel fence posts, and these toolant cobalt bits performed admirably. They stayed sharp and cut through consistently, which saved me a lot of frustration.”
Customer Review: “Using these for auto repair, mostly drilling out broken bolts and modifying brackets. The TiAlN coating seems to really help with heat, and they don’t dull out quickly. Definitely a step up from my old titanium bits.”
5. Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Cutting Steel and Hardened Metals, 1/16″-3/8″
These Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits are purpose-built for tackling the most demanding metal drilling jobs, specifically designed for cutting steel and exceptionally hardened metals. Made from high-quality M35 cobalt material, they boast a hardness rating up to 67 and promise a lifespan up to 12 times longer than average HSS titanium-coated bits. The hardened full grinding process further enhances wear resistance, making them incredibly sharp and durable for use on stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and more.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt Material: Provides superior hardness and heat resistance for heavy-duty metal drilling.
- ✓ Hardness up to 67 HRC: Ensures exceptional cutting power and longevity on tough materials.
- ✓ Hardened Full Grinding Process: Enhances wear resistance and maintains a razor-sharp cutting edge.
- ✓ Versatile Application: Effective on stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, aluminum, and zinc alloy.
- ✓ Organized Packaging: Comes in a sturdy plastic box with compartmentalized storage for convenience.
Why We Recommend It
For serious applications requiring the utmost in drilling power and durability against hardened steel and abrasive metals, these M35 Cobalt bits are a standout. Their high cobalt content and superior manufacturing process ensure they cut faster and last significantly longer, providing excellent value over time for demanding users. They are truly among the best drill bits for cutting steel.
Best For
Professional tradespeople, welders, machinists, and industrial users who frequently drill through stainless steel, high-tensile steel, cast iron, and other extremely hard alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier M35 cobalt material for maximum hardness and durability.
- Significantly longer lifespan (up to 12x) compared to many other bits.
- Excellent performance across a wide range of very hard and abrasive metals.
- Precise and sharp cutting edges from the full grinding process.
Cons:
- Higher price point reflects the premium material and performance.
- Set sizes only go up to 3/8″, which might be limiting for some larger hole requirements.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Good quality bits even though from offshore. Stay sharp for a long time.”
Customer Review: “Had a lug nut stripped. Only way off was to drill lug bolt. These bits went right through it. Impressive!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bits For Cutting Steel
Choosing the best drill bits for cutting steel requires understanding a few critical factors that differentiate a standard bit from one designed for high-performance metal drilling. When you’re facing materials like mild steel, stainless steel, or even hardened alloys, the right bit can make all the difference in efficiency, safety, and the lifespan of your tools. Here’s what to consider to make an informed decision.
Essential Factors We Consider
Material Composition: This is arguably the most important factor. For cutting steel, you’ll primarily encounter three types:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general-purpose drilling in softer metals and mild steel. They are affordable but wear quickly on harder steels.
- Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coated HSS: HSS bits coated with titanium nitride offer increased hardness, reduced friction, and improved heat resistance, making them better for drilling tougher steels and extending bit life.
- Cobalt (M35 or M42): These are HSS bits blended with 5-8% cobalt (M35 has 5%, M42 has 8%). Cobalt bits are significantly more heat-resistant and harder, making them ideal for hardened steel, stainless steel, and other high-tensile alloys. They maintain their hardness at higher temperatures, crucial for cutting through tough metals.
Tip Design and Angle: The tip of the drill bit plays a huge role in its performance. A 135-degree split point is highly recommended for metal drilling, especially steel. This design prevents the bit from “walking” on the workpiece, allows for faster penetration without a pilot hole, and reduces the amount of force needed. Standard 118-degree points require more pressure and are prone to walking.
Coating: Beyond TiN, other advanced coatings like Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) provide even greater hardness and heat resistance, especially beneficial for dry drilling or high-speed applications in tough metals. These coatings prolong the life of the bit and enhance cutting performance.
Flute Design: The flutes are the grooves that spiral up the bit. They’re responsible for removing chips and swarf from the hole. An efficient flute design is crucial to prevent chip clogging and reduce heat buildup, which can prematurely dull or break the bit when drilling through metal. Some bits feature specialized flute geometries (like triple-flute designs) for even better chip evacuation.
Shank Type: Most standard twist drill bits have a round shank. However, some heavy-duty bits come with flatted shanks or hex shanks to provide a more secure grip in the drill chuck, preventing slippage under high torque when cutting steel.
Set vs. Individual Bits: For varied tasks, a comprehensive set of drill bits for steel is invaluable. However, if you frequently use a specific size for demanding work, investing in higher quality individual cobalt bits for those sizes might be more economical in the long run.
Budget Planning
When it comes to drill bits for cutting steel, quality often correlates with price. While budget HSS bits are cheap, they will quickly dull or break on anything but the softest steel, leading to frustration and more cost in replacements. Investing in a good set of TiN-coated HSS or, even better, M35 cobalt bits will save you time, effort, and money in the long run, especially if you regularly drill through metal. Consider the types of steel you’ll be working with most frequently and choose a material composition that matches that challenge. Cobalt bits, while more expensive upfront, offer superior longevity and performance on hardened steel and stainless steel, making them an excellent long-term investment for professionals.
Final Thoughts
The right drill bits for cutting steel are an investment in your productivity and project quality. Prioritize bits made from cobalt (M35 or M42) or at least TiN/TiAlN coated HSS for serious metal work. Look for features like a 135-degree split point and efficient flute design to ensure clean, fast, and safe drilling. Always remember to use appropriate cutting fluid and drilling speeds to maximize the life and performance of your metal drilling bits, regardless of their material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the main difference between HSS, Titanium-coated, and Cobalt drill bits for steel?
A: HSS (High-Speed Steel) bits are good for general drilling in softer materials and mild steel, but they dull quickly on harder metals. Titanium-coated (TiN) HSS bits have a surface coating that increases hardness, reduces friction, and improves heat resistance, making them better for medium-duty steel. Cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are made from an alloy of HSS and 5-8% cobalt, providing superior heat resistance and hardness throughout the bit, making them ideal for hardened steel, stainless steel, and other tough alloys.
Q: Do I need to use cutting oil when drilling steel?
A: Yes, absolutely. Using a good quality cutting oil or lubricant is highly recommended when drilling through metal, especially steel. It helps to cool the drill bit, reduce friction, prevent chip welding to the flutes, and prolong the life of your drill bit. Without it, bits can overheat, become dull rapidly, or even break.
Q: What drill speed should I use for cutting steel?
A: When cutting steel, generally slower speeds and higher pressure are preferred, especially for larger diameter bits. Faster speeds generate more heat, which can quickly dull a bit. Always refer to your drill manufacturer’s guidelines or a drilling speed chart for specific recommendations based on the bit size and type of steel. For hardened steel or stainless steel, even slower speeds are necessary.
Q: How can I prevent my drill bit from “walking” on steel?
A: To prevent bit walking, especially on smooth steel surfaces, always start with a center punch to create a small indentation where you want to drill. Additionally, using a drill bit for steel with a 135-degree split point design will significantly reduce walking, as it allows the bit to start cutting on contact without needing excessive pressure.
Q: Can I use regular drill bits for stainless steel?
A: While you might be able to make a shallow mark, regular HSS drill bits are generally ineffective and will quickly dull or break when attempting to drill stainless steel. Stainless steel is much harder and generates more heat during drilling. For successful and efficient drilling through stainless steel, you should always use high-quality cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42), often paired with a TiAlN coating, and plenty of cutting fluid.
Selecting the best drill bits for cutting steel is crucial for any metalworking task. By understanding the different materials, coatings, and tip designs available, you can confidently choose a set that meets your specific needs, whether you’re working with mild steel, demanding hardened steel, or resilient stainless steel. Our top recommendations provide reliable options for professionals and serious DIYers alike. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to drilling through metal – invest in bits that deliver precision, durability, and efficiency. Explore our recommended products today and elevate your metal fabrication projects to the next level!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
